(MASSENA, NEW YORK) - Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a new power supply contract between the New York Power Authority (NYPA) and Alcoa, a leading aluminum producer and one of the North Country’s largest employers.

The contract includes a commitment of $30 million in capital investments and supports 500 jobs at Alcoa’s Massena Plant for the next 10 years. 

In addition to the contract, Alcoa is investing nearly $60 million through 2028 to rebuild and modernize a portion of the plant.

This investment is made possible by the new energy contract, as well as a $5.2 million capital grant and $1 million in Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits from Empire State Development (ESD).

This improvement will enable process stability and operational efficiency.

“By securing good paying jobs and fostering investment, this agreement ensures Alcoa will continue to be a major presence in Massena while supporting New York families and communities,” Governor Hochul said. “The Aluminum Manufacturing Industry has played a significant role in the Nation’s economic development and New York’s Alcoa Facility has been at the forefront, driving economic growth and opportunity in the North Country.”  

Alcoa committed to maintaining a minimum of 500 full-time equivalent jobs at its Massena West Plant, an increase from the previous commitment of 450 jobs. 

United Steelworkers (USW) District 4 Director Dave Wasiura issued the following statement in response to Alcoa’s announcement: “Good, Union jobs serve as the bedrock of our communities and the USW welcomes the additional stability Alcoa’s long-term plans for its Massena, New York Facility will provide. Nearly (400) Members of USW Local (00420-05) proudly work at the plant, producing aluminum needed across our economy. We appreciate the efforts of our State Representatives who worked with the company to secure this deal, as well as U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer who laid the groundwork by brokering a similar agreement nearly a decade ago.”

The announcement follows approval of the final contract terms by the Power Authority’s Board of Trustees and Governor Hochul.

The contract includes a 240-megawatt (MW) allocation of low-cost power through its Preservation Power program to Alcoa for its Massena Plant in St. Lawrence County - which will support Alcoa's operations through March 31st, 2036, with options for two additional five-year extensions, contingent on maintaining a minimum of 500 full-time equivalent jobs and increased capital investments.

Alcoa also has agreed to invest a minimum of $30 million in the plant’s operation over a period of 10 years.

If market conditions permit, Alcoa may extend the contract an additional 10 years, which would foster capital investments totaling $145 million over a 20-year period.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: Governor Hochul Announces New Alcoa Power Contract Supporting 500 Jobs and Long-Term Investment in the North Country  | Governor Kathy Hochul